Busser Salary in Washington, DC
Bussers in Washington, DC, in 2025, earn approximately $17.95 per hour, which translates to about $718 per week, $3,111.33 per month, and $37,336 per year.
The demand for Bussers in Washington, DC is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a healthy and expanding market for restaurant and hospitality support roles in the region.
How Much Does a Busser Make in Washington, DC?
The salary of a Busser in Washington, DC varies depending on experience and the employer, but here is a breakdown of earnings across entry-level to top earners.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.50 | $420.00 | $1,820.00 | $21,840.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.10 | $564.00 | $2,437.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Bussers in Washington, DC Earn Tips?
Bussers often earn tips in many restaurants. On average, they can make an extra $5 to $15 per hour in tips, depending on the type of establishment and shift. This can significantly increase their total compensation beyond just hourly wages.
Busser Salary in Washington, DC vs. National Average
Nationally, Bussers earn an average hourly wage of around $14.50 per hour, totaling about $30,160 per year.
Compared to this, Bussers in Washington, DC earn more with an average of $17.95 per hour and about $37,336 annually, reflecting the higher cost of living and demand in the capital region.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Washington, DC for Bussers
Within and near Washington, DC, pay varies by neighborhood:
- Downtown: $18.50 per hour
- Georgetown: $17.60 per hour
These areas often have upscale restaurants and higher customer volume, leading to better wages and tip opportunities for Bussers.
What Influences a Busser’s Salary in Washington, DC?
Several factors impact a Busser's earning potential in Washington, DC:
- Experience: More experienced Bussers often receive higher hourly rates and better tips.
- Skills and Efficiency: Bussers who work quickly and maintain high service standards tend to be rewarded with raises and more tip income.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale or busy restaurants usually offer higher wages and tipping opportunities compared to casual venues.
- Shift Times: Evening and weekend shifts may have higher pay or tip potential.
- Location: Working in high-traffic or affluent neighborhoods often increases earnings.
How To Become a Busser in Washington, DC
Becoming a Busser usually requires minimal formal education, but training and certification can improve job prospects and pay.
- Gain hospitality experience: Starting with entry-level restaurant work helps develop valuable skills.
- Pursue food safety certifications: Certifications like ServSafe Food Handler Certification and TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) Certification demonstrate professionalism and can set candidates apart.
- Consider educational programs: Programs such as the Culinary Arts Program at L'Academie de Cuisine in nearby Gaithersburg, MD, or the Hospitality Management Program at University of the District of Columbia provide relevant knowledge and training to advance in the restaurant field.
Top Employers Hiring Bussers in Washington, DC
Some of the prominent employers regularly hiring Bussers in Washington, DC include:
- Boqueria
- Ben's Next Door
- Aramark
Establishments That Bussers in Washington, DC Work At
Bussers typically work across a wide range of hospitality venues:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Provide consistent work but may offer moderate wages and tips.
- Fast Casual Establishments: Often have fast-paced environments with varying pay structures.
- Fine Dining and Upscale Restaurants: Tend to pay higher wages and provide more generous tipping opportunities.
- Hotels and Catering Venues: These often require bussers for large events and can offer steady employment and benefits.
The type of establishment significantly affects total earnings, with higher-end venues generally offering better compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Washington, DC for Bussers
If you're interested in similar roles related to bussing, consider these related careers with overlapping skills and salary ranges.
These include Backwaiter, Server, and Dishwasher positions, which share responsibilities in restaurant and hospitality operations.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bussers in Washington, DC
It is important for Bussers in Washington, DC to understand relevant local and federal labor laws and tax requirements.
- Official website of the U.S. Department of Labor provides federal labor regulations and worker rights.
- Department of Employment Services for Washington, D.C. offers extensive resources on local labor laws, wage standards, and employment services.